How does one go from a summer wedding at the Four Seasons in Atlanta, to a Portugal destination wedding in a historic blush pink castle in the hills outside of Lisbon? Partly “right point, right time” and partly—I’ve been waiting for the right client for this property.
On our initial call the bride mentioned “I want to get married in Atlanta, probably at the Four Seasons” and curiosly, I asked “why there?”
“Well it’s a classic space, and I’m drawn to something that has beautiful architecture, and I want to ensure that my guests have the best food, service, and party that night.”
Fast forward about 3 more sentences, and I eventually throw out “well, would you be open to considering some other locations, that may allow your dollar to go further than prime season at the Four Seasons?”
And that, my dear readers, is how we ended up 6 months later at Casa dos Penedos. Perched along a giant road in the hillsides of Sintra, the blush pink castle sits in a magical mountain town about 30 minutes outside of Lisbon, Portugal, making it easy to get to while also feeling like a world away.
Let’s recap:
- Stunning location with classically ornate architecture and a view worth the travel miles? Check.
- The most insane 6 course meal, complete with a fish course, a meat course, two desserts and a late night buffet, catered by the Ritz Carlton Penha Longa catering staff, for less than the starting rates of the aforementioned Four Seasons? Check check.
- Finally—an air conditioned, light-filled ceremony space that allowed her guests to enjoy the ceremony in comfort … and captivating style? Yes, of course.
These are the pieces of the puzzle that found J & S and their 45 guests in the Casa dos Penedos in Sintra for their Labor Day long weekend wedding. We created an easy and accessible schedule that included rooftop cocktails and bites in Lisbon to welcome everyone in, the wedding in a charming hillside town that was once home to aristocracy’s summer homes, and then a farewell brunch the morning after to nurse some hangovers and sore feet. It was relatively easy to get to, had a range of accommodation options, and from a venue and catering stand point, checked all of our big requirements.
These “diamonds in the rough” destination wedding locations may not be a Chateau in the South of France, or a Villa at Lake Como, however we’re big fans of creating something unique for you and your guests such that it doesn’t feel like anything else your guests have experienced.
That, combined with gracious hospitality, small details to welcome them in, are some our favorite tricks up our sleeves to create your destination wedding that remains beloved and story-filled for decades to come.
See more images below. Originally published on Brides.com in January 2024.
Many thanks to our incredible vendor team who went the extra miles for J&S and all of their guests. Looking forward to getting the band back together on our next adventure in Portugal.
Venue Casa dos Penedos
Wedding Planning and Event Design The Nouveau Romantics
Photographer Sophie Epton
Bride’s Gown Carolina Herrera
Bride’s Tiara Dareth Colburn
Shoes Badgley Mischka
Bride’s Jewelry Jennifer Behr, Stella Grace
Bride’s Veil Pronovias
Bride’s Hair Eclairé Hair
Bride’s Makeup Yara Lacerda
Bridal Salon Jin Wang
Flower Girls’ Attire Popatu
Groom’s Attire Indochino
Groom’s Shoes Cole Haan
Flowers KCKliko
Invitations and Paper Products The Nouveau Romantics
Ceremony Music Magnetic Strings
Reception Music DJ Malike
Catering, Cake, and Accommodations Penha Longa Resort
Rentals Rental Collection
Transportation Paulo Concierge
Videographer Delight Films
